James Michael Lunsford

On July 8th, 2009 with his loving family at his side J. Michael Lunsford went home to be with the Lord. Mike had been a Loudoun County resident his entire 57 years. His transition to the heavens was hastened by the reunion with his Dad, Maphis F. Lunsford his mom, Lydia Smallwood Lunsford, and his sister Nellie Jane whom was an angel before he was born. Mike was born on November 8, 1951 in Leesburg, VA. He attended Loudoun County Schools, and graduated from Loudoun County High School in June of 1970. His life long career with Loudoun County Schools started at the age of 16, when he was selected by the Superintendent of Schools to drive a school bus and pick up his classmates in the Leesburg area, and take them back home after school. After high school graduation he worked at the school bus garage, and then with computer services, all on the grounds of LCHS. He became a route supervisor for the LCPS transportation department in 1979, and spent the remainder of his career in transportation. He became the Director of Transportation in 1995. At a ceremony in June of 2008, Mike was recognized for his 40 years of dedicated service to Loudoun County Schools. “He was in his mind an ordinary man, but others were aware of his extraordinary talents, and we were so lucky to be able to share him with his family.” Mike leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 31 years, Catherine A. “Tootie” Lunsford, whom he met when she was 15, his sons Josh (known to all as Bubba), and Zack, and his beloved baby daughter Emily, whom he affectionately called “Sitty”. His mother-in-law Anna Brownson of Alexandria referred to him as “Saint Michael” for his patience and understanding no matter what the situation. In addition, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. He became “Daddy #2” to his “bestest buddy” Kevin Tracy who just called him “Mr. Mike”, and followed him everywhere he could. Bubba and Zack will carry on this legacy of love as “Mr. Mike” would have wanted them to. Friends may call on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 where the family will receive guests from 1 to 3 pm and from 6 to 9pm, at the Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg, VA, 20175. A Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday at Leesburg Community Church located at 835 Lee Avenue Leesburg, VA 20175, with the Rev. Roy Trammell officiating. Interment will follow in Union Cemetery, Leesburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Equine Rescue League @ www.equinerescueleague.org or the charity of your choice. Mike was extremely fond of his horse friends, and all programs benefiting children. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com

James Michael Lunsford

November 8, 1951 - July 8, 2009